
Resource Guide
5 Steps to Upgrading Your School Building
From planning to finishing touches, you’ll find what you need to start renovating your building with this in-depth checklist.
Download Full Guide for FreeBegin planning at least a year in advance.
Assume that any building or renovation project will take much longer than expected. A facility expansion or move will likely involve your entire team, and the goal is to minimize disruption to your students and academic programs.

Know Your Budget
Getting prequalified for a loan is the essential first step to determining your budget.
When prequalifying a school, a financial institution will look at a variety of factors, including:
- Your school’s existing reserves
- Public subsidies
- Private donations
- Public or private foundation grants
- Operating revenue
Tip: Payments should stay below 20% of operating revenue.

Understand your funding options so you can budget for success.
Different funding options work for schools in differing circumstances. Here are the four options most charter schools consider when buying a school.

Align your school building with your mission.
While building and renovation projects can feel daunting, they can better align your school’s home with your school’s mission. Download the full guide for tips on acquisition, design, permits, breaking ground, and how to bring your community along with you on the journey.

Success Story
See Success StoriesSTARS Charter School
STARS partnered for money to run their school. They were able to embark upon building projects with minimal disruptions to their thriving programs. With the new, improved space, STARS has been able to dramatically increase enrollment.
View Case Study
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